Surgery for colon cancer typically involves the removal of the affected portion of the colon, which is the digestive tract’s lower end. Removal of the affected portion is an especially good treatment option for patients who are in the beginning stages of colon cancer as it often allows for the complete removal of the cancer, without too much damage to the body.
If you or someone you know are preparing for a colon cancer surgery, it may be useful to understand the process of the surgery and how to prepare for the procedure. Here are some useful tips on how to prepare for colon cancer surgery.
Preparing For Colon Surgery
Before a colon surgery, patients will want to make sure to discontinue any blood-thinning medications like aspirin and Plavix. If you are having your colon surgery at the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay, you will have either a phone or in-person interview with the hospital anesthesia team to discuss the procedure. The team will also review your medications and let you know which to temporarily discontinue before the surgery.
In preparation for the procedure, patients may be asked to empty their colon, which may require a special diet, laxative drinks, and/or enemas to get the stool out the colon. On the night before the colon surgery, you will want to refrain from eating or drinking. Make sure to take any medications requested by your doctor with a sip of water, and shower before or on the morning of the surgery. Leave enough time to arrive at the hospital a few hours before the procedure is scheduled.
Recovering From Colon Surgery
After colon surgery, patients will usually remain in the hospital for recovery for 2 to 6 days, depending on how quickly the patient recovers and the kind of colon surgery received. During the recovery time, patients will be started on a liquid diet and then switched to a soft diet as their digestive system adjusts post-surgery.
Patients will want to refrain from any strenuous activity or heavy lifting for about 6 weeks post surgery to prevent herniation. During this time, make sure to take it easy and to rest if you feel any fatigue. Be sure to eat a fiber-rich diet that is low in fat, and you may want to even implement a fiber supplement into your daily routine. As you recover, you will likely have to return for regular appointments to measure your progress and ensure that the cancer was fully removed, or if it isn’t, that it is being appropriately treated.
More Information
We hope this bit of information is useful in getting you ready for your colon surgery. At the Colorectal Clinic Of Tampa Bay, being prepared is as much about following your doctor’s instructions as it is about being well-informed and mentally ready to take on the surgery and all of its step. If you would like to learn more about colon surgery or you would like to schedule an appointment at our colorectal clinic, contact us today!